Sept. 4, 2024
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
University of Missouri President Mun Choi recently received an honorary doctorate from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in Cape Town, South Africa.
The award is given to recognize those who have made significant contributions to scholarship, research and the betterment of society.
“From the onset, President Choi has proven to be an enthusiastic and committed supporter of the longstanding UM, UWC partnership,” UWC officials said in a video announcing the honorary doctorate.
“I want to thank Rector Tyrone Pretorius and his UWC colleagues for this incredible honor that I accept on behalf of the University of Missouri System,” Choi said. “This recognition is due to the many incredible leaders of the Board of Curators, administration, faculty, staff and students at the UM System who worked diligently to make this partnership a success. Special recognition is due to Professor Rod Uphoff and Dr. Ron Turner for leading this program on behalf of the UM System.”
A mutually beneficial collaboration
The University of Missouri System has partnered with UWC since the mid-1980s — the longest partnership in UWC history. UWC officials say the system has had more international exchanges between faculty and students than any other university in the world. Last year, a new program, Entrepreneurs Without Boarders, furthered opportunities by allowing Mizzou students to spend two weeks in Cape Town and UWC students to spend time in Columbia to gain a better understanding of global innovation opportunities.
"On behalf of the Board of Curators of the University of Missouri, we extend our congratulations to President Choi on his honorary degree from the University of Western Cape,” said UM Board of Curators Chair Robin Wenneker. “Throughout his eight years in this role, President Choi has championed hundreds of academic exchanges for both students and faculty through this unique partnership. It has been recognized internationally as a model program and will continue to provide significant opportunities for teaching, learning and research for years to come.”
Choi was among seven award recipients honored at the Celebration of Excellence and Distinction held on the UWC campus.
